An overloaded lightweight extension cord is blamed for starting the fire that destroyed a double-wide manufactured home on CR # 4013 last Saturday night. West Lake Assistant Volunteer Fire Chief Denny Loonham said his department was joined by firefighters from Old River and Mont Belvieu, but all that was left was the home’s exterior structure. Anything of value was gone. The Thrasher Family, who owned the home, had canceled their home insurance a month or so ago to reduce expenses.

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The 7th Annual Thunder on the Trinity will be March 17th through the 19th at the TVE Fairgrounds in Liberty. For various reasons the Trinity Valley Exposition rather than the Liberty Rotary Club will sponsor the popular motorcycle rally this year. To register for the event, call 336-7455 or visit www.thunderonthetrinity.com to print a registration form.

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Liberty Police Officer Ricky Pearson said just after 11 AM yesterday, Rex Williams of Spring was stopped at the traffic signal at Hwy. 90 and the 146 By-pass in Liberty. Behind him in the west bound lane was Kevin Sheffield of Dayton. Police reports indicate Arnold Cryer of Houston failed to stop, and struck the pick up of Kevin Sheffield shoving him into the back of Williams Explorer. Both Sheffield and Cryer were taken to Liberty Dayton Community Hospital. Officer Pearson said citations are pending the outcome of his investigation.

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The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards banquet is this Thursday night at 7 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson JR. High Commons Area. The speaker will be Jeff Moseley, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership. They will also be presenting the annual Citizen of the Year Award. District Attorney Mike Little will serve as Master of Ceremonies, with special music by Valencia Arceneaux and Larry Wagnon. Tickets are still available for $20 by calling 936 336 5736.

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David Bowman Assistant Manager of the Beaumont office of Social Security said for those that are eligible for the Medicare Part “D” Prescription Drug plan, the period of enrollment ends May 15th. Once that deadline has passed, sign ups will not begin again until November.

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* LAKE RELEASE: 1,800 CFS *LIBERTY BRIDGE: 6.85 ASL

-VOLUME 21 NO. 038 MONDAY FEBRUARY 27TH, 2006-

Last week the Dayton City Council voted to change plans for financing the wastewater treatment plant expansion.. Originally, they agreed on a 30-year pay out plan with the US Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development program. On a unanimous vote it will be a 23-year pay-out with the Texas Water Development Fund. Dayton council cited more payoff options and interest savings. There will be an increase in rates to retire the bonds.

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The Texas Department of Transportation will hold two public meetings this week to provide information and answer questions about the Grand Parkway Project and the Trans-Texas 69 Corri-dor Connector Route, both possibly coming through Liberty County. TxDot District Supervisor John Barton said the public is encouraged to attend either of these informal meetings and learn more about the major transportation issues effecting this growing area. The first meeting is tomorrow night from 6 to 8 at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School in Dayton. The second is Wednesday at Barbers Hill High School, also from 6 to 8 p.m.

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Early voting rolls on for Liberty Co. voters in the Democratic and Republican party primaries, today through Friday 8 until 5 pm at the County Courthouse and the Cleveland courthouse annex also from 3 pm until 7 pm today through Friday in Hardin at the Middle School Library and Dayton at the new county annex on FM 1960. County Clerk Delia Sellers says voting is running behind normal. Election day is Tuesday March 7th.

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The Hardin Lady Hornets Basketball Team’s great season ended Friday in Tyler. They lost the Class AA Regional Semi-Final Game to Winona, 66 to 49. Top scorers for the Hardin Girls were Whitney Balch-13 points and Laurel Arthur with 8. The Lady Hornets finished, 27 and 7 on the season. .

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The 30th Annual Liberty Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet is Thursday at 7 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School Commons Area in Dayton. The guest speaker will be Jeff Mosely, Chief Executive Officer of the prestigious Greater Houston Partnership. The Citizen of the Year Awards for Liberty and Dayton will also be announced. Tickets are $20 each. Call the Chamber Office at 936-336-5736 for reservations.

A branch of Wood Forest Bank is coming to Liberty in the new Wal-Mart Super Center. The bank has had in-store financial facilities with extended hours in Wal-Mart locations for the past decade. According to Wood Forest’s Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Cindi Stewart, the Liberty branch will offer full-service banking seven days a week. While hours vary from store to store, Ms. Stewart said Wood Forest is usually open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The bank will employ from 7 to 10 people. For employment applications and information go to www.woodforest.com and then to the career section.

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Monday night, the Dayton City Council approved a 10% homestead exemption for residential property owners to take effect next year. Council briefly discussed the matter two weeks earlier but had been unable to reach a consensus on how much of a tax break to give homeowners. The exemption will cost the city only some $86,000 in lost tax revenue.

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Liberty Wal-Mart Store Manager Ron Olsen said construction of the new 217,000 square foot Super Center at the corner of the 146 Bypass and North Main Street is ahead of schedule and the store may open earlier than the predicted May 17th date.

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The 3rd Annual Police and Firemen’s Appreciation Dinner sponsored by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce and FLNB’s Dayton Financial Center is Thursday March 9th at 7 p.m. The event to honor Dayton’s volunteer firefighters, police officers and Liberty County EMS personnel will be in the cafeteria at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High in Dayton. This year’s guest speaker is Galveston County Judge James Yarbrough. Tickets are $10 each. Call the Dayton Chamber at 936-257-2393.

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Due to considerable community interest KSHN Radio will rebroadcast the Feb. 21st Partyline Program featuring Democratic Candidates for Liberty County Judge Bruce Halstead and Phil Fitzgerald at 6 p.m. Monday. The program will be a taped rebroadcast so no new questions can be accepted.

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FUNERALS: David Dunn, 65 of Dayton. Services pending at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton.

Liberty County Sheriff’s Department Captain Billy Tidwell reports former Liberty resident Billie Warren Smith, now from Ozark AK, was arrested last Friday and charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and Indecency with a Child. Bond was set by Justice of the Peace Ronnie Davis at $250,000 for the sexual assault charge and $200,000 bond on the indecency charge. The charges stem from sexual contact the 78 year old man is alleged to have had 6 years ago with a girl who was 10 years old at the time. Smith was an officer with the Liberty Police Department in the 1970’s and once ran for Liberty Co. Sheriff. Smith remains in the Liberty County jail.

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Liberty School Trustees met Tuesday night and upheld the termination of former employee, Nelda Martin. She was Secretary to the Assistant Principal at Liberty Middle School. Mrs. Martin asked for a level 3 grievance hearing after, other then being told it was in the best interest of the school, she was not given a reason for her dismissal. Her attorney, Richard Burroughs of Cleveland said her 5-year work record with the district was impeccable, and she deserved her job back. Sources inside the district say Mrs. Martin, who is bilingual, was let go after she refused to translate. In her notes prepared for the grievance hearing, she said she had never refused to translate, in fact had done so the day she was fired. The vote was unanimous.

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According to Dayton Police Sgt. Doug O’Quinn, the elderly man dragged from his burning apartment on Feb. 11th - David Dunn has died. Thought to be in his 80’s, Mr. Dunn was said to be recovering from multiple second and third degree burns but hospital officials said he died sometime overnight or early Wednesday morning. It is believed the fire victim’s age was a factor coupled with his serious burn injuries.

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The Hardin Lady Hornets Basketball Team won their Regional Quarter Final match up with the Crossroads Lady Cats Tuesday night in Groveton, 58 – 51 in overtime. Next, the Hardin Girls face Winona at Tyler Junior College tomorrow night at 8. Adult tickets are $5, students $3 at the gate.

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Funerals: Necie Edith Moore, 89 of Liberty. Services will be today at 10 am at Allison Funeral Service in Liberty.

According to Dayton ISD Transportation Director Steve Bell, a 4 year old boy was crying that he “really had to go” when the school bus driver went against school policy and allowed him to go into a home other than his own, to use the restroom. The parents of the little boy did not know the family, and once they learned of the incident filed a complaint with the district. Transportation Director Steve Bell said the bus driver has been suspended for 8 days and reprimanded. He said when emergencies arise on a bus, drivers have been instructed to go directly to the child’s home, and go back to the rest of their route when the situation is resolved. He said dropping a child off anywhere, other than school or their home, is against school policy. Steve Bell said no further action is expected against the driver and she is likely to return to duty after her suspension.

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Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Texas Gov. Rick Perry set up a task force to study Texas’ preparations in the event of another major storm striking the Texas Coast. That task force presented the Governor with their recommendations last week. One calls for moving the authority to call for evacuations to the Governor, and remove it from County Judges and Mayors. Chambers County Judge Jimmy Sylvia said he agrees with that recommendation, saying a hurricane is a regional event. If the decision on when to call for mandatory evacuation came from the Governor’s office it would allow for broader coordination over the entire area.

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It was standing room only Monday night as Mayor Steve Stephens and Dayton Council Members recognized local postal carrier Luis Espinosa for his February 11th rescue of David Dunn. Espinosa had been making his mail delivery rounds at the Dayton Housing Authority Complex on FM 1960 when he smelled smoke, heard an alarm and rushed in to a burning apartment to save Mr. Dunn. Council proclaimed Feb. 20th as “Luis Espinosa Day” in the City of Dayton.

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Cub Scout Pack 55 will have their Annual Blue and Gold Banquet Friday night at 7 at 1st United Methodist Church in Liberty. The banquet will also feature a silent auction. Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and under. For more information or to make a donation for the auction call 936-334-1139.

Dayton School Superintendent Greg Hayman said their 2nd Level Appeal of the University Interscholastic League’s latest district realignment was denied yesterday in Austin. The Dayton ISD had protested the UIL’s decision to put them in a district with Beaumont schools on the grounds it requires traveling long distances to district events, mostly along the unsafe I-10 corridor. Hayman said the school district has no further recourse. Dayton will be in District 22-4A for the next 2 years.

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Early voting in the March 7th Democratic and Republican Party primary elections starts today and continues through Friday March 3rd. Voters can cast their ballots early weekdays at the Liberty County Courthouse and the courthouse annex in Cleveland from 8 am - 5 pm. Early voting will be held from 3 pm until 7 pm at the Dayton Annex and the Hardin Middle School Library. Another early voting opportunity will be Sunday February 26th at those four locations, from 11 am to 3 pm.

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The Hardin Lady Hornets will face the Crossroads Lady Cats at 7 pm tonight in the Groveton High School Gym in the Regional Quarterfinals. The Lady Hornets coached by Danny Balch and Randy Snell go into tonight’s game with a 26-6 record.

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The Annual Monument Awards Banquet sponsored by the Lee College Small Business Development Center is Tuesday March 7th in Crosby. The awards honor small businesses in portions of Liberty and Chambers Counties and there have been several winners from the Liberty-Dayton Area over the past few years. For more information, call 281-425-6309.

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KSHN Radio’s series of political forums continues on Thursday at 8:30 a.m. with the candidates for Precinct #3 County Constable. The candidates in the special election on March 7th are the appointed incumbent Danny Frankum, James Miles and Tommy Koen. Listeners are invited to call in their questions.

A chain reaction wreck yesterday afternoon sent Heather Johnson, 18 of Hardin to Memorial Hermann Hospital by air ambulance, and Joesph Diaz of Victoria TX to San Jacinto Methodist Hosptial in Baytown by Mont Belvieu EMS. Dayton Police report several vehicles were stopped on Hwy. 146 south of Hwy. 90 waiting for construction crews to unload culverts when Johnson hit the back of the Baker Hughes petrolite flatbed truck, pushing it into the back of the truck of Wayne Hardin of Liberty, who was pushed into the back of the truck of Wendy Pepper of Baytown. Neither Heather Johnson nor Joesph Diaz are thought to have life threatening injures.

****************************************************Dayton ISD Superintendent Greg Hayman said the district will present their appeal on the UIL realignment next Monday. He said they are basing part of their appeal on the cost to the district to travel the some 120 miles round trip to compete in the new district that put Dayton in with Beaumont schools. He also said there’s a safety factor involved in taking students on the I-10 corridor between Dayton and Beaumont with the ongoing construction along that roadway.

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Liberty County Tax Assessor/Collector Mark McClelland reminds voters that those who cast ballots in either Democratic or Republican Primary Elections on March 7th will be ineligible to sign petitions to have Independent Gubernatorial Candidates Carole Keeton Strayhorn or “Kinky” Friedman placed on the November General Election Ballot.

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U. S. Congressman Kevin Brady said Texas School Districts should begin receiving reimbursement payments from the federal government for the costs of enrolling students displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Brady said schools are going to get $6,000 per student in $1,500 per quarter installments. Currently, an estimated 38,000 students from Louisiana and Mississippi still remain in schools here.

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The Liberty County Courthouse and the City Offices in Liberty will be closed Monday for the Presidents Day Holiday. Dayton City Offices will be open Monday. Garbage service will run as scheduled in both Liberty and Dayton. All banks and post offices will be closed Monday for the holiday.

In a split 2-1 vote, Judges in the Court of Appeals in Houston, overturned the 2004 misdemeanor perjury conviction of former Chamber Co. Chief Deputy Dearl Hardy. Chambers Co. Asst. District Attorney Dan Bradley said the conviction was overturned on an extreme technicality, and they would file what is called a Petition of Discretionary Review to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals in Austin asking them to review this case. He added, he was sorry the justices in Houston didn’t see what the folks in Chamber County knew, Dearl Hardy did this, but they have to abide by the court decision.

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Tuesday night, Liberty City Council agreed to apply for two separate grants, one for Hurricane Rita repairs and one for a beautification project. During Rita, the Port of Liberty’s earthen plug suffered some erosion, and while it is not in immediate danger of failing, the US Department of Agriculture offers a grant program that could provide funding for repairs. The other application is to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Rural Beautification program for $5,000. City manager Allen Barnes said the money from this grant would go toward beautifying the area along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

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In a joint effort, the Dayton Chamber of Commerce and Dayton Team City will host an information meeting this Saturday about the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit program. It will be in the Family Life Center of the 1st Baptist Church in Dayton from 10 am until noon. Chamber President Lester Wisegerber said Congressman Kevin Brady and folks from the Social Security Office will help explain the program. For more information call the Dayton Chamber office at 257 2393.

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The Liberty Police Department is investigating a theft of several panels from the horse stables at the Trinity Valley Exposition Fairgrounds. The panels are 7 to 9 feet long and 3 to 5 feet high, made of steel and wood. The TVE is offering a $500 reward to anyone with information leading to the arrest and indictment of those responsible. Call the Liberty PD at 336 5666.

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FUNERALS: Gloria “Measie” Shifflet, 78 of Sheldon. Graveside services will be Friday at 3 pm at the Fairlawn Memorial Park in Liberty.

Liberty County Commissioners voted 3 to 1 to accept the roads in four subdivisions owned by well-known developer Weldon “Buddy” Alders for county maintenance. The “no” vote came from Precinct #4 Commissioner Norman Brown, who said in a prepared statement he did not feel the roads – all located in his precinct- met minimum county specifications. Brown went on to say the item was placed on Commissioners agenda for a final approval vote against his recommendation and he does not feel it was in the best interests of Liberty County taxpayers.

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Dayton Mail Carrier Louie Espinosa said he smelled smoke, then heard an alarm and finally cries of pain from an apartment in the Dayton Housing Authority Complex on FM 1960 Saturday afternoon. Putting himself in considerable danger, the 31-year-old Espinosa found David Dunn lying in heavy smoke and flames inside his burning apartment and carried the elderly man to safety. Mr. Dunn suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns and was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital for treatment.

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Early voting in the March 7th Primary Elections starts Tuesday Feb. 21st and continues through Friday March 3rd. Early voting is at the Liberty County Courthouse and the Cleveland Annex weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dayton Annex and the Hardin Middle School Library. Early voting on Sunday Feb. 26th is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at those same four locations.

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A trial date has been set for May 22nd in the case of a Hull man charged in the deaths of three small children. George Douglas Richardson, 38, faces three counts of Intoxication Manslaughter in connection with the June 2005 wreck on Hwy 146 that claimed the lives of 19-month-old William Murphy IV and his twin sisters, Miranda and Mariah, ages 9-months. Investigators say the children were inside a disabled vehicle parked properly on the side of the road when the truck Richardson was driving slammed into it from behind. He is free on $300,000 bond.

An Illinois woman was flown to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Beaumont, yesterday afternoon following a truck-travel trailer rollover accident on Hwy. 90 east of Devers. DPS Trooper Jack Dean said cross winds caught the high profile camper, causing the truck which was lighter than the camper, to lose control. The combination fishtailed before going into a ditch and flipping over. The passenger, City Lin Holmes, 55 of Granite City, IL, was taken to the Beaumont Hospital with injuries to her abdomen. Her husband Harry Holmes, also 55 was not injured. They were both wearing their seat belts at the time of the wreck.

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Liberty School Superintendent Mona Chadwick said while she did not want the lawsuit filed against the school district by former teacher’s aide Julie Fairchild “played out in the media”, the district is looking forward to their day in court. Ms. Fairchild claims to have been fired from the LISD for reporting the physical abuse of special education students. Mrs. Chadwick has denied that is the case and said there is no evidence the alleged abuse ever took place. The lawsuit is seeking damages to cover Julie Fairchild’s lost and future wages and benefits, as well as for physical and emotional stress.

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Dayton’s new city manager David Douglas will be on the job next Monday. The new city manger will receive a compensation package that includes a salary of $67,000.

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The Liberty Dayton Area Chamber Luncheon is tomorrow, guest speaker is Steve Buser, President of the Partnership of Southeast Texas, an economic development organization covering 9 counties in Southeast Texas. For reservation call 336 5736

****************************************************The Liberty Fire and EMS Departments Annual Awards Banquet was held Saturday night. First Assistant Chief Larry Hajovsky was honored for 20 years of service and for responding to the most calls as a volunteer. The Rookie of the Year Award went to standout volunteer Mike Gott. The highest honor- “Firefighter of the Year” for 2006 - was awarded to Liberty Fire Captain Bryan Hurst.

A daring rescue by three fire fighters Saturday night pulled a man from his burning home in the So. Liberty Oilfield. Police Sgt. Ricky Skarpa said neighbors believe the man was despondent and set fire to his mobile home while suffering from both marital and emotional issues. Fire Capt. E.Z. Burns led his team into the smoke and found the man in a bedroom closet under clothing. Rescued was 42-year-old David Hilton. He was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital suffering from smoke inhalation and severe burns over about 25% of his body.

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Liberty City Council meets Tuesday to hear Hart Intercivic will show them how to operate the new electronic voting machines. City Mgr. Allen Barnes said the city will rent the machines from the county for the May 13th Council Election. Paper ballots will also be available. Council member’s Mike McCarty, Mark Beausoleil and Charles McGuire have expiring terms. So does Mayor Bruce Halstead but this time he’s running for Co. Judge.

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Interim City Manager Brian LaBorde said Dayton has the $50,000 in matching grant funds from Texas Parks and Wildlife to develop the Henderson-Day Park. LaBorde said with the city match $100,000 will go to recreational facilities in the park. The work will be done by city crews and outside contractors.

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Liberty Co. Hospital District President Bruce Stratton said the 9-cent per $100 of assessed property tax should be sufficient to provide promised indigent services for the foreseeable future. To raise the tax, a vote by eligible voters would be necessary.

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The 80th Men’s Brotherhood Banquet at 1st United Methodist Church in Liberty is Thursday at 7 in the Fellowship Hall. Men of all faiths come to the traditional turkey dinner. This year’s speaker is Clayton Whitaker, Pastor of 1st Methodist Church in Vidor. $8 tickets are at the church office or call 936-336-6401.

Former Teacher’s Aid Julie Fairchild has filed suit in federal court alleging the Liberty School District fired her last year for reporting instances of physical abuse by a staff member against Liberty special education students. The suit seeks unspecified damages for lost wages and benefits as well as future wages and benefits due to claims the circumstances surrounding her termination from LISD has harmed Ms. Fairchild’s ability to continue to work in education. LISD Superintendent Mona Chadwick has refuted Ms. Fairchild’s claims and said an investigation found now evidence such abuse had taken place.

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A ruling by 253rd District Judge Chap Cain that Curtis Robinson Jr. qualifies as a habitual offender under Texas law was followed by the judge sentencing the local man to two concurrent life prison terms. Robinson was found guilty Wednesday of Aggravated Robbery and Burglary of a Habitation for the 2004 break-in and robbery at the Hardin home of E. B. Young, age 83. Robinson will have to complete the prison term he his currently serving for a previous crime before beginning this one. A trial for the Capital Murder of Daniel Tebo still looms in the near future for Curtis Robinson Jr.

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After the outcry from the local level to Washington over Texas’ less than 1 % share of the $11.5 billion allocated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to Hurricane impacted states, there was welcome news yesterday. The federal government will send Texas another $88 million in Social Service Block Grants for recovery efforts. U. S. Congressman Kevin Brady said those funds can be used to reimburse non-profit organizations and help social and mental health services.

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Liberty County Hospital District Board President Bruce Stratton said the district would grant a blanket tax exemption for charitable organizations and give the same exemptions for senior citizens, disability and homesteads as are granted by the county.

A jury in the 253rd District Court found Curtis Robinson Jr. guilty of Aggravated Robbery and Burglary of a Habitation in connection with the 2004 break-in at the Hardin home of 83-year-old E. B. Young. DA Mike Little said Robinson is being tried as a habitual offender and the state will present evidence of 10 prior felony convictions during the sentencing phase of the trial. Robinson could be sentenced to from 25 to 99 years or life in prison. A charge of Capital Murder for the stabbing death of Daniel Tebo is still pending against Curtis Robinson.

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Monday night the Dayton City Council voted to postpone any final decision on approving a financing plan for the city’s sewer plant expansion project. At the urging of Council member John Simmons council revisited their decision two weeks ago to use a forced 30-year pay off on a 40-year loan from the U. S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Rural Development Fund. Simmons and Jay Tadlock voted against that decision, favoring borrowing the money from the Texas Water Development Fund on a 23-year pay off. Simmons presented cost figures suggesting the rural development route could cost taxpayers an additional $4 million in interest payments over the term of the loan

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One change in tax law this year affects those who take the standard deduction for mileage traveled in the course of conducting business on their itemized tax return. CPA John Otto said the rate is split this year. The rate for miles traveled between January 1st and August 31st 2005 is 40.5 cents. It increases to 48.5 cents for mileage driven between Sept. 1st and Dec. 31st.

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The 7th Annual Black History Program, sponsored by the Liberty County Historical Commission is Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the newly redecorated Liberty School Auditorium on Grand Ave. This year’s event will feature awards, music, refreshments and a presentation by Liberty’s Chester Baldwin, a nationally known gospel musician. For more information, call Kevin Ladd at 409-389-2252 or Michael Mark at 936-336-4609.

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FUNERALS: Greg Johnson, 48 of Dayton. Services today at 2 pm at Navarre Funeral Home in Baytown. *** Cecile MaeJoyner, 89, of Rockport, Services at 2 p.m. today at the Liberty Church of Christ. **

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*LAKE RELEASE: 1,500 CFS*LIBERTY BRIDGE: 7.02 ASL*

-VOLUME 21 NO. 026 WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 8TH, 2006-

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Liberty Police said 16-year-old Daniel Julius went for a joy ride with four of his friends down the very dangerous, sandy street known as Port Road yesterday afternoon, slid out of control and into a tree. Daniel Julius and one of his passengers Jose Aguilar were not hurt. However, Thomas Aguilar, 14, and Trevor Davis, 16, were taken to the hospital by ground ambulance. Matthew Ladner, also 16, riding unsecured in the front seat was slammed into the windshield on impact. He was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital mostly as a precaution. Daniel Julius was cited for driving too fast for conditions and transporting a person under 18 in the bed of a truck.

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Dayton City Council Monday night voted to select former Jasper City Manager David Douglas as their choice for new city manager. Council unanimously approved a motion to “offer” the job to Douglas, and authorized Mayor Steve Stephens to meet with the former Jasper City Manager and negotiate a salary and benefits package. This is the first step in Douglas replacing Andy Helms who resigned in October of last year.

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The Liberty County Hospital District Board has completed all work necessary to begin offering its services to those who qualify on March 1st. The district is accepting applications from those living within the district boundaries - which includes most of South Liberty County- to cover indigent health care costs. Only those with an income level equal to or lower than the federal poverty level will qualify. Applications are available at the Hospital District Office on Myrtle St., off Main in Liberty or call 936-336-7400 for more information.

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The Liberty Co. YMCA is holding registration for two more of their very popular programs. The “Y” will sponsor a “cheer clinic” for kids 5 to 12 February 20th through May 20th. Classes will be each Monday from 6:30 to 7:30 PM at Stephen F. Austin Elementary in Dayton. There will also be a six-week dance and drama class. It starts March 16th with dance classes for 3 to 4, and 5 to 6 year old age groups, and drama classes for kids 7 and up. For more information call 936 257 2888

Liberty Police report another “Pigeon Drop” scheme being worked in South Liberty Co. City Detective Gary Martin said that mostly elderly citizens are being approached in large parking lots. Police say be alert to any stranger asking for banking information who wants you to trust them, even if they are willing to let you hold their money to show their trust. Police need a good description of the pigeon drop experts. If you are approached, call the police with all the information you can remember. In the latest cases, police say these thieves have taken their victims for from $600 to $1000, spread out over several months in Liberty. If you have any information, call the Liberty Police Dept. @ 936 336 5666.

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DPS Trooper Rick Salinas said it was just after 10 a.m. yesterday when a one-vehicle wreck on FM 1409 sent two women from Gilchrist to Memorial Hermann Hospital. Trooper Salinas said both Kay Rutherford, 49, and Terri Wright, 45, were not wearing seat belts and Terri Wright was ejected from the vehicle. The women were taken by air ambulance to the Houston Hospital. Both were said to be in serious condition.

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Family members of 34-year-old Kenneth Paul Brand say though the Liberty man remains in critical condition doctors said this weekend his life signs have improved. Brand suffered severe injuries in a one-vehicle wreck on Friday Jan. 27th. Family members have been told they can now be optimistic about his chances for recovery. A second man injured in that wreck, Danny Ray Cupid, 40, was also seriously injured. No word was available on his condition.

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Liberty County Clerk Delia Sellers said one fact might have been lost in the media coverage of the new electronic voting machines to be used in all Liberty County elections starting this year. Fact is any eligible voter who does not want to use the machines can tell the voting judge they want a paper ballot and one will be supplied. Early voting for the Democratic and Republican primary starts Feb. 21st.

As the $10 million repair project at the Lake Livingston Dam continues, the latest phase necessitates frequent, but minor, changes in lake releases. The Trinity River Authority’s Spencer Karr says the largest track-hoe ever built, is at work on the dam. It is a Caterpillar 385 CL, weighing 187,000 pounds with a 52-foot reach and eight-foot bucket. Work to repair Hurricane Rita damage is expected to take about six months to finish.

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Jury selection is expected to begin today in Judge Chap Cain’s 253rd District Court in the aggravated robbery trial of a local man, also charged with Capital Murder. Curtis Robinson Jr. stands accused of the September 2004 stabbing death of 63-year-old Daniel Tebo. No trial date on that charge is set. Today Robinson goes to trial for a home invasion robbery in Hardin that occurred a few days after Daniel Tebo’s body was discovered near his Ames home.

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The Gulf Zone Opportunity Act allows those living in Hurricane affected areas to withdraw funds up to $100,000 from their retirement accounts without paying a penalty for early withdrawal. According to State Representative and CPA John Otto, that provision applies only to those who suffered economic losses because of Hurricanes Rita, Katrina or Wilma. Another provision of the legislation applies to those who got an extension to file their 2004 tax return. Those who had until October 15, 2005 to file their 2004 returns, now have until Feb. 28th, 2006.

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The Liberty Lions Club is accepting renewals for their “Flags Across Liberty" Program. The local service club installs, then removes the American Flag at Liberty homes and businesses each year on six holidays for annual fee of $25 for each flag. To renew your subscription, send checks to Liberty Lions Club, PO Box 9122, Liberty, TX 77575. First time subscribers can call 936-336-6355 to sign up in time for Presidents Day on Feb. 20th

DPS Corporal Gary Wright said Gary Lee Leslie, 54, died yesterday, when he apparently had a heart attack or stroke while driving on an overpass on US 59 near Cleveland. His truck rolled down the hill and hit a barrier. Corporal Wright said while they are waiting for the official determination from the medical examiners office, it is believed he was dead before the truck hit the concrete wall. Mr. Leslie retired just last week from the Houston Police Department after 32 years of service. He was married with 3 children, elementary to high school age.

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The University Interscholastic League announced the district realignments yesterday. In Liberty County, Dayton moves from 19-4A to 22-4A with Beaumont Central and Beaumont Ozen, Nederland, Lumberton, LCM, PNG and Vidor. Liberty stays in 22-3A that also includes Cleveland, Tarkington, Coldspring, Shepherd and Splendora. Hardin is 24-2A with Anahuac, Buna, Deweyville, Kountze, Warren and East Chambers. Hull-Daisetta moves from 23 to 24-1A with Evadale, High Island, Sabine Pass and West Hardin. Over in Chambers County, Barbers Hill jumps from 22-3A to 21-4A.

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The 30th annual Liberty Dayton Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet will be held March 2nd in the Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School Commons Area in Dayton. The guest speaker will be Jeff Mosely, Chief Executive Officer of the prestigious Greater Houston Partnership. Also that night the Citizen of the Year from Dayton and Liberty will be named. The banquet starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are on sale now for $20. Make your reservations by calling the chamber office at 936 336 5736.

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T.V.E. Facilities Manager James Bricker got a bit of a surprise during the Texas Association of Fairs Convention held in January. He was named the 2005 Manager – Professional of the Year from the association. This statewide award is presented annually to one individual who has demonstrated their management skill in working for their fair and other organizations. He said it came as a complete surprise, and he was honored by the award.

When the Federal Government pulled their support for the long proposed I-69 corridor, Texas Gov. Rick Perry proposed making the project a state and private enterprise project and changed it’s name to the Trans-Texas I-69 Corridor. Representative John Otto said a connector road, to link the Houston ship channel back into the corridor as it moves north of Houston, would not only come right through Liberty Co. but it might be constructed first because of its importance. Otto said while the main road, built west of Houston could take upwards of 30-40 years to complete, this connector route through here could be built in the next 8-9 years. He said that would ease the increasing congestion in the area of the Port of Houston, putting a project like this on the front burner.

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February is Black History Month and KSHN Radio begins our annual series called “African American Firsts”, recognizing the accomplishments of black authors, statesman, entertainers, athletes, educators, religious leaders, inventors and others for their contributions to our history. The program airs several times each day throughout the month of February. Former KSHN employees Lori Richard and Michael Mark are narrators for our “African American Firsts” series.

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Lee College in Baytown will host a Financial Aid Workshop on Saturday Feb. 11th and Sunday Feb. 12th at the Lee College Campus. According to Financial Aid Officer Sharon Mullins, the workshop is to provide assistance and information to all those who plan to attend any college or university, not just Lee College. For more information, call 281-421-0553.

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The Liberty Library is now accepting good used books for the annual book and bake sale held as a part of the Liberty Jubilee. Library Director Dana Abshire said if you would like to donate books, drop them off at the Library, and if you need help carrying them in, just ask.

Yesterday, in a unanimous vote, the Liberty County Juvenile Probation Board named Anthony Scott as the new director of the department. Scott, a 1986 graduate of Hardin High School, earned his degree in social work from the University of Texas in 1992, and came to work in Liberty County for the juvenile probation department in 1993. For the past several years he has been working mainly out of the Cleveland office. He officially took the reigns yesterday and said his goal is to move the department forward.

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Among the tax relief provisions in the Gulf Opportunity Zone Act is one intended to help those who opened their doors to shelter Hurricane Katrina victims. According to State Representative and CPA John Otto, those who provided rent free shelter to evacuees for at least 60 days are entitled to an itemized deduction of $500 for each evacuee up to four people. Another provision of new legislation expands the amount parents can deduct from college costs if their children attend a college or university located within the hurricane affected areas.

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Information from family members indicates former Liberty resident Ernest James “E. J.” Felice, now 50, has been arrested in Louisiana on two charges of Aggravated Incest. Police say a complaint of indecent behavior with an eight-year-old child against Felice- who grew up in the Moss Bluff Area- led to the reopening of a case from 1993 accusing the suspect of engaging in sex acts with a 17-year-old family member. “E. J.” Felice is jailed in Beauregard Parish, Louisiana on a $150,000 bond.

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A new Burke’s Outlet Family Apparel Store is now under construction in Liberty’s Jefferson Square Shopping Center, immediately north of Tractor Supply. The 20,000 square foot store is preparing for an opening in mid-March. According to their web site, Burke’s – subsidiary of Bealls- offers clothing and accessories for men, women and children as well as shoes, home furnishings, toys and gift items.

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FUNERALS: Paul Crutchfield, 81 of Liberty. Services this afternoon at 4 pm at Allison Funeral Services in Liberty * “Andy” DeWayne Barton Anderson, 36 of Hull. Services tomorrow at 2 pm at the New Covenant Church in Saratoga.

Around 2 am Thursday morning, while on routine patrol, Liberty Police Office Mike Doyle surprised two men as they were leaving Lewies Convenience store with stolen weapons. A car chase followed before the two men, later identified as William Taylor George, 24 of Batson and a 15-year-old relative, ran the car into a ditch and ran into the woods on foot. Liberty Police Chief Bill Griffin said the Hightower prison unit tracking dogs followed the men’s scent to Beaumont Ave. before they lost them. At 6 am a Daisetta Police officer spotted the two men walking on FM 770 and they were taken into custody. It was later learned the car the men wrecked was stolen from the area of FM 834 in Hardin. George and the juvenile are charged with evading arrest, and burglary of a building.

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The Liberty City Council voted to table proposed changes to their animal control ordinance Tuesday night. The provision requiring livestock owners to register their animals with the City’s Animal Control Officer generated the most debate. Council Members Mike McCarty and J.C. Burnham argued livestock registration would be almost impossible to carry out, but Police Chief Bill Griffin said only very general information about the animals and contact numbers for the owners would be provided to police. The information would help officers locate the owners of animals that escape pastures or pens.

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The Liberty County Metro Go-Texan Kick Off Dance, benefiting the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship Fund is Saturday Jan. 21st from 8 to midnight at the TVE Expo Hall. Advance tickets are $10. Gate tickets are $12. Call for more information at 936-258-8324.

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The Liberty County Courthouse and all Liberty City Offices will close Monday in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday. Dayton Offices will be open regular hours on Monday. Garbage service will run as scheduled in Liberty and Dayton. Banks and post offices will close Monday for the holiday.

****************************************************There were no injuries or illness reported, after a Union Pacific Rail Car began leaking dangerous hydrochloric acid early yesterday morning. The pinhole size leak was discovered around 12:50 a.m. on the section of track that runs parallel to U. S. 90 in Dayton. Under extreme pressure, the leak created a cloud of gas over the highway. Liberty County Emergency Management Coordinator Leroy Hanel said no evacuations were called for, but traffic on U.S. 90 was rerouted until just after 5 a.m. Wednesday while haz-mat experts provided by the rail car’s owner- Bayer Chemical- stopped the leak.

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Four, mostly local, longtime Liberty business have been ordered to relocate from the city block bounded by Hwy. 90, MLK, Fannin and Main Street to make way for a new $1 million CVS Pharmacy Building. The owners of Liberty Paging and Cellular, Noack Locksmith, Barrett’s Upholstery and Bail America have 30 days to find new locations. Best information indicates a company called Cedarwood Development will clear the block to build a new 11,945 square foot location and parking lot for the pharmacy chain, currently located on North Main Street.

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The 6th annual Liberty County Relay for Life, benefiting the American Cancer Society is set for April 7th-8th at Liberty’s Memorial Stadium. Candy Rucka, Co-chair says they are hoping for even more teams then last year. To enter a team, call Geraline Daniel at 936 336 6105.

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The Liberty County Unmet Needs Committee is now excepting applications. The funds are to help meet needs for assistance for victims of Hurricane’s Rita and Katrina. Apply for assistance at Operation Refuge, on North Blair in Cleveland, Mon-Tues, and Thurs.-Friday from 11 am until 1:30 pm. They will also be accepting applications at the Liberty Co. Courthouse Annex in the Lobby, on Cos St. in Liberty Monday through Friday from 9 am-4 pm. Deadline for applying is February 28th.

Liberty County Commissioners met in workshop session yesterday to discuss 41 pages of documents alleging various irregularities in voting and election procedures. As reported, those questions came from Assistant County Republican Party Chair Charlotte Kramer. In addition to political party members and County officials, Elizabeth Winn with the Texas Secretary of State’s Office was also at the meeting. Among the steps agreed upon to address some of Mrs. Kramer’s concerns is the development by County Clerk Delia Sellers of a written plan on how central vote counting procedures are to be handled. Another suggestion- made by Commissioner Todd Fontenot – was the County’s State mandated Election Board –made up of elected officials- should become more active than is currently the case.

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The Dayton City Council met Monday night and agreed to file an appeal seeking dismissal of the remainder of DCDC Director Sue Priddy’s lawsuit against the City. Judge Chap Cain has already dismissed much of the suit but breach- of- contract claims remain intact. The council action seeks to have the Appeals Court dismiss the rest of Mrs. Priddy’s lawsuit.

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On Dec. 30th, Spectra Group of Memphis, Tennessee’ s purchase of the 2.79 acres on the Hwy 146 Bypass in Liberty became final. The Spectra Group’s Jeff Farmer III said the size of the shopping center his company will build there next to the Wal Mart Super Center has been shrunk to 14,960 square feet, for seven tenants instead of ten. So far, Cato’s, a loan office and a shoe store are on the dotted line.

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Liberty County Commissioners voted to extend the ban on outdoor burning. Citing the continuing dry weather conditions, commissioners banned all fireworks in the county. While the incorporated cities in the county already have a permanent ban on fireworks, this covers the un-incorporated areas of the county. Commissioners said they would rescind the ban when the fire danger is reduced.

A 18-wheeler chemical transport tanker rolled over Monday, and set the stage for a dramatic rescue. Melody R. Scroughan, the 31-year-old driver apparently lost control of her rig as she was traveling north on FM 1409 at what is known locally as Deadman’s Curve. It was a heroic effort as Liberty County EMS and a Liberty Co. Sheriffs Deputy worked to stabilize the woman sitting on top of what was left for her sunken and destroyed sleeper cab. A Dayton Fire Department boat was used to take her from the wreckage to the bank of the creek, where she was loaded onto a Liberty Co. EMS Dreams Ambulance. From there the truck driver was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. DPS Trooper Nathan Pierce said the driver was going too fast when she and her loaded tanker truck went into the curve and over the guardrail.

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After almost 12 years the Liberty Opry House, located in the restored Park Theater on Sam Houston Street, will close its doors following the final show on January 28th. Karla Burris, part of the Cox family who has been putting on the shows since June 1993 made the announcement during the show this past Saturday. That final show will feature legendary Guitarist Randy Cornor. Reservations for either the 2 p.m., or evening show at 7:30 p.m. can be made by calling 936 336 1079

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Kathryn Walker with the Beaumont Office of Social Security says that only original documents can be used when replacing a Social Security Card, copies are not acceptable. Documents that can be used to prove identity include a Drivers License, State ID Card, Passport, US Military ID Cards, among others. However, a birth certificate can not be used as proof of identification. Applications for replacement cards can be printed off the Social Security web site, get there through our web site, kshn.com

Much of DCDC Director Sue Priddy’s lawsuit against the City of Dayton has been dismissed. The civil action that claims the city had a contract with Priddy and broke it will be litigated or mediated. District Judge Chap Cain threw out claims against Council Members John Simmons, “Frosty” Pruitt and Jay Tadlock. The judge denied Mrs. Priddy’s injunction plea that to reinstate her salary, slashed in half by council. State law says the city has final say over budget and contracts by an economic development corporation but they say frequents requests for a copy of the DCDC agreement with Priddy were ignored. We have no date on when the civil trial might begin.

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Dayton Interim City Manager Bryan LaBorde said the city’s maintenance department is moving into the newly rebuilt Maintenance Warehouse on Winfree at Linney. Six months ago the original was mostly destroyed by fire. Two juveniles were charged in the breakin and with arson at the facility. Mr. LaBorde says the building is now larger, with space for more city offices.

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TxDot Spokesman Mark Shepherd said SH 146 road work moves into the City of Liberty today from the Bypass So. to Jefferson Dr. on Main. Motorists should expect traffic delays in that area for several days. The roughly $2 million project will remove 4 inches of the old roadway replacing it with 2 inches. That should eliminate the cross street bumps. Shepherd said when it gets warmer the job will advance on Main to US 90.

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Liberty City Council meets tomorrow at 7 p.m. The agenda includes consideration of revising the animal control ordinance. City Manager Allen Barnes said the proposal includes removing the regulation that dogs on City Park property must wear a muzzle. Another proposed change requires livestock kept in the city limits be registered with Liberty Police. Owners can then be more easily located when the animals are found running loose. ****************************************************

On Thursday, the Trinity River Authority signed a contract with Archer Western Construction for the 6 months long rehabilitation project at the Lake Livingston Dam. Most of the repair costs are being paid by FEMA while the City of Houston – part owner of Lake Livingston- is picking up the balance. Since the dam suffered damage by Hurricane Rita, the water level has been lower than the normal 131 feet above sea level elevation. The TRA’s Spencer Karr said rumors of a plan to drop the level still more while the work is being done are not true. Repairs will begin almost immediately.

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What began as a trash fire in Ames yesterday afternoon destroyed a storage shed belonging to Valentino Williams, before Liberty and Ames firefighters extinguished it. Liberty Fire Chief Fred Collins said it’s the latest in a series of grass and trash fires that have gotten out of control over the past several days. All were illegal burns. There is a ban against outdoor burning in Liberty and Chambers Counties until further notice.

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Liberty Police are investigating the theft of over $23,000 in saddles, tools and equipment from a local business. Eric Thomas, of “The Iron Pens” on FM 2684 told police someone broke into the business over the New Year Holiday, taking 15 new Western saddles valued at $1500 each and other property.

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Last week, 75th District Judge C. T. “Rusty” Hight approved the out-of-court settlement offered 17-year-old Bessie Parsons in her lawsuit against the Hardin ISD over a 2002 wreck involving a Hardin School Bus. Since the plaintiff in the case is a minor, Texas requires the court to hold a hearing to approve the settlement to ensure it is in her best interests.

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Coverage began on January 1st for those who have enrolled in the new prescription drug benefits under Medicare Part D. Information indicates roughly 21 million people nationwide have signed up for the plan. For information on enrolling, call 800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov

Before the filing deadline ended on Monday, Phil Fitzgerald officially became the third candidate for Liberty County Judge. Raised in the Hardin Area, he has been Precinct #3 Justice of the Peace for 19 years completing over 400 hours of judicial training. One of two Democrats running for County Judge, the 46-year-old said his background as JP and as a business owner gives him the judicial and administrative experience to be a good county judge. Phil Fitzgerald is opposed in the March Democratic Primary by Bruce Halstead. The winner will face Republican Craig McNair in the November General Election.

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U.S. Postal rates go up two cents this coming Sunday. Dayton Post Master Angie Hayes said the price of a first class stamp remains thirty-seven cents until then. She reports long lines of people buying the new 39-cent stamps and 2-cent stamps to make up the difference, but those won’t be needed until after midnight on Sunday. All mail postmarked by Jan. 7th will fall under a grace period for delivery to its destination.

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On Dec. 19th, Dessie Cherry took over the duties of Warden at the C.C.A. operated Liberty County Jail. She replaces the recently promoted Robert Lacy. Warden Cherry has only worked for CCA for a few years, but her career in corrections and criminal justice spans some 33 years.

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Lifeshare Blood Center will hold platelet drives twice a month at 1st Liberty National Bank beginning this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Platelets provide the clotting factor in human blood. The second opportunity to donate is on Saturday Jan. 21st also at the Liberty bank. Call 936-298-2689 to make a reservation.

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The public is invited to the 8th Annual Liberty County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Saturday January 14th at 1 p.m. this year at Liberty’s Turkey Creek Baptist Church on FM 563. This year’s event will honor the late Rosa Parks, known as “the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement”. State Representative Dr. Alma Allen of Houston and Baseball Great Grover “Deacon” Jones will be the Keynote Speakers.

Daisetta Police Officer Colin Hulsart stopped a car for making an illegal turn on Christmas Eve. The driver, Steven Wayne Robinson, 29, and a passenger, Jeffery Allen Robinson, 26, were arrested for outstanding warrants and for allegedly giving false information to a police officer. Daisetta Police said a search of the vehicle turned up what are commonly used as drug scales, clear plastic bags commonly used to distribute illegal narcotics and about 11 grams of a substance investigators believe to be methamphetamine. Any charges relating to that substance await the results of DPS Crime Lab Testing.

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It took 50 years, but Texas jurors have gotten a pay raise. According to Liberty County District Clerk Melody Gilmore, as of January 1st, the minimum pay for those selected to serve on county or district court juries went up from $6- the lowest rate in the nation- to $40 a day. The same law allows those who give false information in an attempt to be excused from jury duty to be held in contempt of court and fined up to $1,000. The pay increase is an attempt by lawmakers to get more of those summoned for jury duty to show up for it.

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The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended the deadline for Hurricane Rita and Katrina victims to register for assistance until March 11th. Disaster Officials hope those living in the affected areas who need help will use the additional 60 days to apply for it. The toll free number is 1-800-621-FEMA and phone lines are answered 24 hours a day.

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Work begins today on that project to widen the West Side of one block of N. Travis between Trinity and Sam Houston in Liberty. It’s part of the new city hall and auditorium construction and will take from 3 to 4 weeks. West Side parking for that one block will be lost until the widening is completed.

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All Nine Sports will broadcast the 2006 Rose Bowl Game between the Texas Longhorns and the USC Trojans tonight beginning with the pre-game at 6 p.m. Kick off is at 7.

The last day for candidates to file for the March Primary Elections saw Republican Ray Akins file to run for Precinct #4 County Commissioner. In the Democratic Party filings, Phil Fitzgerald made his expected run for Liberty County Judge official. The number of Democratic Candidates for Justice of the Peace Precinct #3 grew to eight with the addition of Robert Sellers. Two more Democrats- Tommy Koen and James Miles join Danny Frankum on the ballot for Precinct #3 Constable and Monique McDuffie Davis and David Perry brought the number of candidates for Precinct #6 JP to a total of four.

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In the second sting operation run by the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission, in cooperation with the Liberty County Sheriff’s Department, focused on businesses that serve alcohol, such as bar’s taverns and clubs. The goal according to Sgt. Craig Smith with the T.A.B.C. was to find businesses that continue to serve after it is clear the patron was intoxicated, or selling to minors or what is called open saloon sales. That means a private club serves alcohol even though that person is not a member. The team found 5 cases of public intoxication, 3 open saloon, and 1 sale to an intoxicated person violations.

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Mont Belvieu has put a moratorium on oil and gas expansion for 120 days. City Manager Bryan Easum said they decided on the hold after a company began expanding operations without a city permit to do so, they are currently in litigation with Enterprise Products over the drilling of a new brine well. A judge has refused to grant an injunction against the drilling and the city is waiting for an appeals court to take up the case.

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Candidate filing yesterday saw F. Len Hughes toss his hat in the ring as a democrat for Chambers County Judge. Former Chambers County Sheriff Monroe Kreuzer, Jr. filed to run against Incumbent Jimmy Sylvia in the Republican Primary. Also Republican District 18 State Representative John Otto has an opponent in November. He is Libertarian Kris Overstreet.